Mosimane inherits South Africa defensive depth as 10 young centre-backs emerge

Pitso Mosimane has taken charge of a South Africa defence rich in young talent, with 10 centre-backs aged 24 or under either established at senior level or pushing for international recognition since his appointment as Bafana Bafana head coach in September 2026.

The South African Football Association boss can choose from players competing in the MLS, Bundesliga, Scottish Premiership and UEFA Champions League, giving him a depth of defensive options few African nations can match.

Mbokazi leads the new generation

Mbekezeli Mbokazi has become the leading figure in the group. The 21-year-old left-footed defender made his senior debut in South Africa’s 2-0 win over Mozambique in June 2025 and confirmed his potential during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria in September 2025.

His move from Orlando Pirates to Chicago Fire has furthered his development, while his performances have led to him being viewed as a future Bafana Bafana captain.

Ime Okon, 22, has formed a strong partnership with Mbokazi. The centre-back joined Hannover 96 from SuperSport United before the 2025/26 season and has become a regular for South Africa. Eligible to play for both South Africa and Nigeria, Okon reaffirmed his commitment to Bafana Bafana by saying he knows where his heart is. The Mbokazi-Okon partnership became central to South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Olwethu Makhanya provides another international option. The 22-year-old impressed at Philadelphia Union before joining Rangers in July 2026. His athleticism and technical quality have made him an important depth player, and he made his South Africa debut in 2026. He started Mosimane’s first three matches with Mbokazi injured.

Established options return

Rushwin Dortley, 24, became Hugo Broos’s preferred left-footed defensive option in 2024. He played every minute of South Africa’s successful 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign before a knee injury in March 2025 interrupted his progress. A fully fit Dortley would give Mosimane another world-class option as he continues his rehabilitation with Kaizer Chiefs.

Orlando Pirates defender Lebone Seema, 23, won the 2025/26 Betway Premiership Defender of the Season award and received his first Bafana Bafana call-up in September 2026. He made his debut in the 5-0 AFCON qualifying victory over Eritrea, replacing Makhanya in the 74th minute, and also played in the 2-1 friendly win over Egypt. Mosimane praised his display in what he called a big game, while Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou described him as the future of South Africa.

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza, 22, made his senior debut against Algeria at the African Nations Championship in August 2025 and was named Man of the Match after a 1-1 draw. He later received his first senior call-up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Broos believes centre-back is Khoza’s best position and has stressed the importance of developing him there rather than moving him between roles.

Ayanda Jiyane, 24, has been one of the Premier Soccer League’s most consistent defenders with Lamontville Golden Arrows. Coach Manqoba Mngqithi compared his one-on-one defending to former Bafana and Orlando Pirates legend Siyabonga Sangweni in April 2026. Injury ruled him out of a national team call-up in September 2026, but Arrows coach Pitso Dladla regards him as one of the country’s best centre-backs and expects him to earn a future Bafana selection.

More prospects emerge

Stellenbosch FC defender Tylon Smith, 21, signed his first professional contract after being named Player of the Match in South Africa’s Under-20 COSAFA Championship final victory over Zambia. He was also selected in the Team of the Tournament.

Aden McCarthy, 22, the son of former South African international Fabian McCarthy, broke into the Kaizer Chiefs first team last season before joining Sabah FK in Azerbaijan. He featured in the UEFA Champions League match against Manchester United.

Sbangani Zulu, 23, has added further competition after playing for Royal AM and Richards Bay before joining Orlando Pirates. The versatile defender continues to develop in several positions across the back line.

The group’s age range, from 21 to 24, could allow the 10 players to serve Bafana Bafana into the mid-2030s. Mosimane’s task is now to manage that depth, keep players match-sharp and establish the defensive partnerships that will shape South Africa’s next decade.